Steps to Building a Home| New Home Building Tips

DIY Conveyance - Is it Possible?

2008-09-26T07:26:00.000-07:00

In this modern era of convenience shopping, buying a house is probably the most longwinded purchase you'll ever make. One of the major time eaters of the whole house buying procedure is the conveyancing process, which is the transfer of ownership of real estate from one person to another. It may sound like a very simple process but it can easily take two or even three months to complete.

As it a legal process, a large majority of people employ the use of a solicitor or licensed conveyor to carry out all the legal work. The conveyancing process begins in earnest once an offer has been made and accepted on a property and both parties have exchanged details of their solicitors. However, even once you have accepted the offer, you must remember that it has been made subject to contract and survey. Your solicitor then liaises with the other solicitor at what appears to be a snails pace to complete the legal documentation that is required in transferring ownership. As the process can be very slow it can become very costly, so many people are now making the decision to do their own conveyancing. However conveyance is one of the areas of the property transaction that is the riskiest, most labour intensive, and filled with a vast amount of legalese (legal jargon). But you will find that doing it yourself will save you hundreds of pounds, as there will be no fees to pay, no mark ups or VAT on any disbursements that you may have to pay to a legal professional..

If you do some research before hand it can be beneficial because it can help you have better knowledge of the whole process of conveyance. The main benefit of doing your own conveyance is that you maybe able to do it much quicker if you devote the sole of your time to it.

However not everyone should rush out and do their own coveyancing, this is because it is very complicated and you need to be confident in your ability of not to make a mess of it, as you could face severe penalties for any mistakes. Also make sure that you do not miss any thing from the list of activities that a solicitor would normally do. If you do everything in a sequence and in plenty of time it should be fine.

The main problem that you are likely to face would be the lease and the contract. This is because it is the part where the solicitor would draw on their expertise on the process. So you need to careful and attentive and thorough in all your dealings with these documents. Also make sure you understand all the terms and conditions and the implications of all the clauses. Keep checking everything you have done and make sure everything is spelled correctly.

Even when you are sure you have done everything, it may still be worth getting a solicitor to give your work the once over and to ensure you haven't missed anything important or made a huge blazing error. You should be able to find a solicitor who will do this for you for around £100. Hopefully after getting every checked over by a professional it should bring you peace of mind.

The process of doing the conveyance may seem to be long a labour intensive, but if you are dedicated enough and organised enough to do as much research as you can, any thing is possible. But it is important to remember to keep checking what you have done.

Nationwide Modular Homes - A Tradition of Excellence

2008-09-26T07:24:00.002-07:00

Working together with Authorized Builders, Nationwide Modular Homes has developed a system to not only market, but build and finish its modular homes for a customer base which includes not only fourteen mid-Atlantic and Gulf Coast states, but the District of Columbia as well.

Nationwide Modular Homes: The Landmark Multihome Collection

One area in which Nationwide Modular Homes has set itself apart from other modular home manufacturers is that of multi-family modular homes, which it has been producing since the company began in 1959. Nationwide will manufacture multi-family homes either from their own plans or to the specifications of builders, and their staff has the pricing and engineering expertise to not only draw up plans for multi-family modular home projects, but to see that they are approved by all pertinent agencies and the every builder has carefully calculated pricing projections. This pricing assistance is a significant help for builders when they are arranging their construction schedules.

Nationwide Modular Homes: The Landmark Multifamily Collection

Nationwide Modular Homes have developed multifamily homes to meet the need of every housing market, from apartments and townhouses to condominiums and even motels. Their Landmark Collection of multi-family modular homes all have been designed with the 2'X 10" floor joists and fire sheathing which meets the rating standards of the local municipal codes. Like all modular homes, Nationwide multi-family homes are manufactured as individual modules to be mounted of pre-poured foundations when they arrive at the construction site.

This efficient manufacturing process means that the multi-family home project builder need only oversee the pouring of the foundation and arrange for a crane to unload the modules onto it when they get to the site. The modules will already be equipped with plumbing, electrical wiring, insulation, and cutouts. The builder simply hires the few subcontractors needed to hook the units up to their water, electrical, and sewage lines, and to finish the unit interiors and exteriors.

The amount of labor actually needed to finish the units is only twenty percent of the of what is involved in constructing a traditional multi-family unit, so the builder has a drastically reduced construction time and will save significantly on the construction loan interest he pays.

Cupolas, Well Proportioned, Add Curb Appeal

2008-09-26T07:24:00.001-07:00

The apparent serenity of the past is an oil spread by time. By Lloyd Frankenberg.

Serenity and beauty of the past-a cupola is designed to last, with character to capture the spirit of early American architecture. Placed in a prominent position, cupolas are a decorative architectural accent.

Often cupolas appear as smaller buildings perched on top of a building. When the cupola takes the form of a small, round Roman temple it is called a pavilion.

Designed for functionality, decoration and antique appeal, cupolas will beautify any structure. Cupolas add curb appeal with nostalgic remembrance of traditional Early American architecture.

When thinking of purchasing a cupola, one needs to be careful not to purchase without thought of size and the architectural style of the building it will be perched upon. One wants the cupola to add balance to create an asymmetrical appeal that gives your outside buildings to look there absolute bests.

Cupolas need to be sized proportionately to the building it will be placed on. The size of the cupola is determined by the height, length, and width of the building.

In selecting the right size for the building, a good rule of thumb is at least 1 inch of cupola base for every foot of unbroken horizontal roof line. Example: An unbroken roof line of 30 feet would require at least a 30 in cupola base.

If the building is higher than 1 story, it is recommended a larger cupola. It is also recommended to have a cupola larger when the roof is steep. A too small cupola could have the appearance of a bird house.

Cupola bases are designed to accommodate different roof pitches of the structures it will sit upon. The cupola straddles the roof much like a horse back rider straddles the back of a horse.

Window cupolas will appear smaller than the same sized louvered cupola on any building. Also, how the cupola looks when seen on the ground will change once placed on the roof. Therefore, it is important to measure appropriately.

If the building is greater than 100 feet long use multiple cupolas. A solution would be to have a large cupola in the middle with smaller ones at each end or place two cupolas one at each end.

A properly sealed dimensional and detailed cupola will add a finishing touch to both new construction and existing buildings.

Looking to update your exterior building without breaking the bank? Cupolas are a timeless masterpiece, a great way for adding curb appeal. Serenity and beauty of the past---a cupola is designed to last with functional performance and character of tradition to capture the spirit of early American architecture.

Considerations of a New Life - Building Your Summer Home

2008-09-26T07:24:00.000-07:00

The stresses of life are numerous and the opportunities to enjoy ourselves, our family, and our friends are precious. We are only afforded a few chances a year to truly be ourselves and rarely do we take notice and take advantage of these chances. Living in a city makes it painfully obvious that our freedoms are limited, our independence is conditional, and our peace of mind contingent on material realities, but these concerns which affect and dilute the living experience need only cloud the mind for eleven months out of the year. If you are considering an escape, or a place to relax, there is no more perfect sanctuary and vacation that a trip to a newly built summer dwelling. Consider the advantages of different locations when planning to build a new home away from home.

Maine, or as it is better known to families with summer houses on its pristine and secluded lakes, "the vacation state", is one of the prime pieces of real estate to consider when attempting to build new quarters in which to spend your summers. Maine has a relatively small population that is comparatively high in spirit and humor, and is home to all ages and professions of people from lobsterman and lumberjacks, to vacationers and writers. The great Stephen King at one point called Maine home, and used the peaceful state as the backdrop of many of his most famous stories. As a location to build a summer dwelling, Maine is optimal for the hardy individual who doesn't mind a little precipitation, has a love of outdoors and a love of company. As if these qualities weren't enough, Maine is home to arguably the best lobster in the world, an excellent treat for the vacationer spending time in the newly built home away from home.

On the opposite end of the climate spectrum, temperate New Orleans has become another ideal spot to build a new vacation residence. Partly due to the tragic events of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the price of land in New Orleans has dropped and now is an excellent time to consider building a house on the outskirts of this famous Louisiana city. One need not feel too terribly the pangs of guilt, as New Orleans locals welcome the opportunity to meet new neighbors and will be more than glad to indulge your desire to tour (and spend) in the Crescent City. However, building a new summer house in New Orleans should not be taken as an invitation to disrespect the culture and the history of the city. While the price of land in the South is historically low right now, the vibrancy and dignity of the people who have been affected by the dropping prices and disastrous misfortunes around the coastal region remains in tact, and should be taken at all times as deserving of the utmost respect and consideration.

While there is no perfect place to build a summer abode, the opportunities afforded by Maine and Louisiana provide ample chance for the perspective home-builder to find their niche, build a new house, and start to feel at home.

Owner Builder - Why Lot-Homesite Selection is the Most Important Decision in the Process!

2008-09-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

Where you build your Dream Home is in many cases the most critical decision you can make when deciding where you are going to build your Dream Home! Many Owner Builders think they have it all figured out when it comes to lot/homesite selection but in my experience I have seen many get this wrong time and time again! In fact this topic is so important that I personally think you could never research this enough and the time invested in the process of deciding where to build your Dream Home is vitally important to the financial success of your Custom Dream Home project! After all what good does it do to have a Custom Dream Home that you spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to build only to have that investment not grow in value over time because you picked the wrong community to build in!

So what things should you consider when researching where you should build your Dream Home.

#1. "Follow the Smart Money!"

Simply stated, this strategy is finding out what major developers are planning to do in the area! Are there are master planned communities in the vicinity that are either in the planning stages, under construction or currently seeking civic approval. This is vitally important as master planned communities are major contributors to value increase and land value appreciation due to the extensive research and resources they engage into a given area. A master planned community is a development that not only includes starter, move-up & estate homes within the development, they also include the plans for the schools (elementary, middle & high schools) as well as apartment complexes, commercial development like grocery stores, retail strip centers and quality of life amenities like parks, walking trails and entertainment facilities for the entire family.

#2. Build in or close to a Master-Planned community development.

As I stated above the developers for these master planned communities have spent hundred of thousands of dollars researching the area and it's viability and you can piggy-back off of that knowledge by building in or next to these master planned communities. Another benefit to this strategy is you get to take advantage of the HUGE cash investment the developers are making into the area as far as commercial development (malls, strip centers, gas stations, schools and hospitals). Fast access to these creature comforts have a dramatic impact on the popularity and potential appreciation of a given area.

#3. Exodus from Suburbia

A few years ago there was a really good documentary that was done by this name "Exodus from Suburbia" and in a nutshell it foretold what we have experienced in the last 6-9 months regarding gas prices here in America and the world for that matter! This documentary talked about how gas & energy prices would continue to rise and thereby force the population trends and migration to shift from the suburbs back to the inner city due to the cost of gas. I have personally watched this trend have a dramatic impact on Inner-city land prices here in Houston as I can recall lots in my old neighborhood that sold for as cheap as $5000 back in 2002-2003 are now selling for $35,000! The Inner-city areas of cities all around the country are undergoing a major renaissance and are definitely worthy of consideration.

#4. Do not buy too far ahead of the "curve!"

This strategy speaks to buying in new areas that are anticipating development that has not yet started! I have a client who I am working with right now and the waterfront lot they are buying costs $55k however the person they are buying the lot from paid $69k six years ago! So the person we are buying from in essence bought "too far ahead of the curve!" They bought several years in advance of this area really becoming popular and now many are selling for a loss! The reason this happens is because people do not perform adequate research to determine just how much is planned as opposed to how much has been approved and/or are presently under development.

You see when the land owner bought the lot six years ago for $69k, no major master planned communities were planned and there was no catalyst for the area becoming a popular destination. However 3 years later, a major developer purchased land in the area and announced a proposed community that over time manifested into what has become Houstons most expensive middle class community. So he had the right idea in purchasing in that area he just did not have the right timing and as a result of that he lost several thousand dollars.

Let me explain... see there are many "proposed" projects in a given area and it is good to make note of those projects but more importantly you want to be aware of the projects that have gone beyond proposed and are now approved and have begun construction. You see many proposed projects never get off the ground for a variety of reasons so you never want to invest your financial future and Custom Dream Home on something that is proposed that never gets off the ground. So when performing your due diligence, be sure to look at what projects are currently under construction and do not be afraid to pass on an area that seems too speculative.

Hopefully you have enjoyed reading this article as much as I have enjoyed sharing this valuable information with you. This is just a snippet of the information I share to my subscribers and I trust that you visit us and join with us, until the next time, I wish you the best with your Custom Dream Home project.

3 Reasons Why You Should Buy a Modular Home

2008-09-20T04:48:00.005-07:00

Why Buy A Modular Home? To Save Money

The materials in a modular home are purchased at significant bulk rate discounts, which are passed along to you, and the assembly line method of module production saves huge amounts in labor costs when compared to on-site home construction. This can mean that the final price of your home will be many thousands of dollars less than the cost of a similar stick-built home.

The shaping and cutting of all the materials used in your home's modules is done by computer-controlled tools, meaning that waste is reduced to a minimum and the finished home will fit together with absolute precision. You'll have the most energy-efficient house possible, and will be reward with lower home hating and cooling bills as long as you live in it!

Why Buy A Modular Home? To Save Time

The assembly line methods used to build your home's modules mean that they can be completed, inspected, and ready for delivery to your building site in no more than five days. You'll know that all the materials in your home were kept clean and dry throughout the manufacturing process, so there won't be any waiting around for replacement of materials damaged by weather.

There also won't be any worries that your home might contain damp or warped lumber and drywall and that the pipes will eventually crack because they were exposed to extremes of heat and cold. Your home will be between 75% and 80% complete when it arrives at your site, and it's possible for a two-section modular home to be ready for its inhabitants in as little as tow weeks after delivery!

Compare the ninety days it takes form ordering your modular home to your move-in date with the six to twelve months it normally takes for a site built-home to be finishes, and you'll have another reason why you should buy a modular home.

Why Buy A Modular Home? For Its Quality

Most modular home are actually constructed to be stronger than their stick-built counterparts. These modular home are constructed from the floor joists up, and are engineered so that the homes actually become stronger as one module is affixed to the next with bonding adhesives, bolts, and nails. The exterior walls of modular homes contain 2' X 6' studs, as opposed to the 2' X 4's used in traditional home construction. Remember, the modules of your home have to be sturdy enough to withstand being crane lifted onto their shipping trailers and crane-lifted again form their trailers to their foundation, after a journey of what might be several hundred miles. Now that's STRONG!

Modular Homes - A Home Builder's Delight

2008-09-20T04:48:00.004-07:00

Modular homes sections are constructed in climate-regulated manufacturing plants, allowing builders to eliminate the expensive delays they experience whenever the weather their building sites turns against them. The time it takes to have a modular home up and in move-in condition from the moment it is ordered can be as short as ninety days, and that kind of turnaround can mean savings which a builder can pass along to a customer. Being built inside and away from the weather also means that modular homes can be ordered at any time of the year.

Discounts On Materials

Another advantage modular homes offer for builder-developers is that their materials, both for the exterior, and the interior finishing materials and appliances, can be ordered in bulk lots, at significant discounts. Yet they will be equal in quality to any of the materials or appliances used in standard homes. This is another huge savings for the builder, and eventually for the customer.

Factory Site Quality Control

One often overlooked advantage of modular homes for builder-developers is that because a modular home is manufactured in a single factory, those who are building it will be subject to the same performance standards. The end result is a home of uniform quality throughout, and both the home builder and the future home owner will benefit from knowing that.

Customization

How about the fact that going modular allows a builder to tailor his home plans to his customers' specifications? This is a terrific advantage of modular homes for builder-developers because it gives the builder the flexibility to either draw up his own plans or order homes built to an individual buyer's request. Modular homes can be created in any architectural style, and a design plan can even be changed via computer if the customer comes up with a new idea.

Owner Builder - Why Lot-Homesite Selection is the Most Important Decision in the Process!

2008-09-20T04:48:00.003-07:00

So what things should you consider when researching where you should build your Dream Home.

#1. "Follow the Smart Money!"

#2. Build in or close to a Master-Planned community development.

#3. Exodus from Suburbia

#4. Do not buy too far ahead of the "curve!"

Nationwide Modular Homes - A Tradition of Excellence

2008-09-20T04:48:00.002-07:00

Nationwide Modular Homes: The Landmark Multihome Collection

Nationwide Modular Homes: The Landmark Multifamily Collection

Considerations of a New Life - Building Your Summer Home

2008-09-20T04:48:00.001-07:00

Salt Lake City New Home Builders

2008-09-05T08:37:00.004-07:00

Salt Lake City home builders - Are you looking to buy or build a new home in the Salt Lake City area? Well, begin your search here with the home builder's links listed below. There are all types of price ranges and styles, so see what Salt Lake City home builders peek your interest.

Richmond American Homes - Select Richmond American homes begin at $150,000. You will find floor plans with 2-6+ bedrooms and sizes ranging between 1,000 and 3,000+ sq ft.

Proterra Homes Inc - Use Proterra to help you plan and build the home of your dreams. You can also take a look at current projects and residential listings.

Hamlet Homes - Find your dream home in one of their urban or suburban housing communities. Waverly Station is one of their urban living quarters that offer townhomes beginning in the low $200s; work, live and play! Bear Hollow Village is a suburban community that offers spacious condos beginning in the mid $300s.

Federal Pointe Home HOA - This is a homeowner's association in Salt Lake City; see what they can offer you and your family.

Reliance Homes - If you need help buying your new home, check with Reliance Homes about their "Work for Down" program. You can also check out their communities and floor plans.

Peterson Homes - Take a look at the three communities by Peterson Homes; Harvest Crossings, The Ranches and Country View. These are made up of townhomes and single-family homes between low the $200s and mid $300s.

Highland Springs Home Owners - Give Highland Springs a call or visit to see one of their model homes.

Huntly Manor - This is a community that is very convenient; giving residents access to the expressway while offering the security of a gated community.

Alderwood Homes - Offers various home designs and floor plans.

Mt Olympus Builders - This is a Salt Lake City home builder offering various housing communities.

Take a look at the gathered links to Salt Lake City home builders. There you will find more information about their homes, communities, prices and home buyer programs; if applicable. If you would like to find out more, call the number on the web sites listed in the links above.

Tips For Dealing With Contractors

2008-09-05T08:37:00.003-07:00

This week continues my series on opening a brick and mortar retail store from scratch. So far we've talked about startup plans, market research, and scouting for locations.

This week we discuss how to find a capable building contractor to build out the location. And as this series has been thus far, this segment is based on my personal experience and offered to you warts and all. As with all of my columns only the names have been changed to protect the innocent, the ignorant, and the overly litigious.

OK, so I signed my name in blood on the lease agreement and the space was mine for the next two years, succeed or fail. It was a large single room, about 1600 square feet, with a small storage area and two restrooms in the back. The floor was painted concrete, the walls were an odd shade of orange, half the lights didn't work, and there was no hot water or air conditioning. And that was just scratching the surface. There were a few dozen other things that would have to be repaired or installed before I could move in.

Now a lesser man would have been intimidated by the huge task of converting this empty money pit into a thriving retail store in less than 60 days, but I'm an entrepreneur - which is a French word meaning "idiot who takes on the impossible," so I was energized by the challenge.

The question then became: who will build out this space? It certainly wasn't going to be me. When it comes to construction I'm about as handy as a one-armed man in a clapping contest. It was time to line up contractors.

I don't know about you, but it's been my experience that a capable, reliable contractor is hard to find. Let me rephrase that: it's been my experience that a capable, reliable contractor is damn near impossible to find. It's easier to pin the tail on Bigfoot while blindfolded in dense fog than to find a contractor who understands the concepts of appointments and commitments. Nevertheless, my quest began with the Yellow Pages and referrals from friends.

I quickly felt like Henny Penny, desperately seeking anyone who would help me bake my bread. I talked to flooring contractors, painters, plumbers, electricians, security system installers, heating and air conditioner guys, and general building contractors. Most of them didn't seem to give a rat's backside if they got my business or not. Several didn't bother returning my calls. Others came late to appointments and others didn't bother showing up at all.

Now I don't mean to say that all contractors are unprofessional, uncaring, and undependable. I'm sure there are many reputable contractors out there who show up on time, do great work, and bill you fairly. Then there's the other 99%, many of whom are good old boys who operate out of their pickup trucks without the benefit of license, bond, or concern for their customers' satisfaction. If you're a contractor and want to argue these points let's make an appointment to talk in person. I'm pretty sure you won't show up.

Fortunately for me I managed to find a contractor in the 1 percentile that went above and beyond the call of duty to get the space built out on time; in spite of my demanding nature and daily changes to the plans. I was very, very, very lucky...

So how can you better your chances of finding a reliable contractor to build out your space? Pray, my brothers and sisters, and follow these guidelines.

Don't be pressured by deadlines. When starting a business you're usually under a tight schedule, which puts you at the contractor's mercy (they can smell fear and desperation). They know that you need them more than they need you. This is a lousy place to be, but you have to be patient and don't hire a contractor simply because he has a hammer and a pulse.

Ask to see licenses and bonds. As mentioned earlier, many contractors forego the formality of business licenses and security bonds. They prefer the "have hammer will travel" mode of business. If the contractor you're interviewing can't show you a business license and proof of a surety bond, move on to the next candidate.

Are they wearing a watch? If the contractor isn't wearing a watch it's probably because he has no concept of time or regard for schedules. I want to see a contractor wearing a watch that he looks at often. I want to see him carrying a daytimer and a cellphone with a number that I have on speed dial.

Ask for references and check the BBB. This should be a no brainer, but I'd bet most entrepreneurs never bother to ask for or check references. You want the names and numbers of at least five previous customers and always check their history with the BBB. Anyone can stencil their name on the side of a truck. Don't be fooled into thinking that makes them a professional.

Next time we'll discuss building permits, zoning laws, and building codes; and how your ignorance of these items can cost you a ton of time and a bundle of cash. The voice of experience sings again.

The Difference Between a Theodolite and a Total Station

2008-09-05T08:37:00.002-07:00

Both the theodolite and total station are tools used to measure horizontal and vertical angles during surveying and engineering projects. Each have particular pros and cons which can be utilized in various situations. In general, it will depend on the time, money, man power, and expertise you have available when deciding on the right tool for your job.

Although theodolites have been used for hundreds of years, the main operation of these tools remains the same. A theodolite consists of a moveable telescope mounted between a vertical and horizontal axes. The angle of each axes can be measured with fairly accurate precision as long as the operator has sufficient knowledge of the tool's use and basic trigonometry. However, the use of a theodolite generally requires the help of at least one other person besides the main operator to help measure and align angles. When precision counts, it is imperative that both operators are properly trained and understand all of the elements of gathering data; this may include leveling the tripod/theodolite and measuring stake, as well as aligning the stake and measuring line to gather accurate data, and finally use mathematical and graphical skills to generate the appropriate output.

The benefits of a total station will outweigh the downsides, in most cases, because of its all-inclusive features and digital integration. A total station integrates theodolite functions in order to measure angles and distance with an EDM (electronic distance meter). Total stations use a system of prisms and lasers to develop digital readings of all the measurements during your job. All of the information gathered with the total station is stored in an external computer where data can be manipulated and added to CAD programs. Robotic total stations are available that allow the operator to work alone with the use of a remote control.

A total station is generally superior to a theodolite because of its digital integration and precision. However, total stations are much more expensive and require not only surveying training, but specific product and software training as well. When completing surveying jobs that span large distances, especially over treacherous terrain, a total station will provide the most reliable and accurate results. For simple plots of smaller areas, a theodolite is sufficient. Before you purchase either tool, ensure it comes with the necessary accessories you'll need on the job. For a theodolite you will want a measuring stake and steel tape, a tripod, as well as grid paper and a pencil to record the data. In most cases, a total station will come with all the necessary accessories you need, however, some may not so always double check!

Tips to Save Money When Building Your Own House in Phuket Thailand

2008-09-05T08:37:00.001-07:00

With the costs rising this year higher than ever before, I like to share a few money saving tips when building your own house in Phuket, Thailand. You can use either some or all of these ideas to cut costs and spend your money on more important items. If it's important to get the highest quality house for the lowest possible cost, this article is for you.

Buying building materials in Bangkok and shipping them to Phuket can be a real cost saver. You want to do your homework first on local prices and quality. Bangkok has a much bigger selection of tile than found on Phuket Island. There are huge areas that sell tiles in Bangkok and a much bigger and cheaper selection too. There are also huge outlets in Bangkok that sell Tile imports from China and Vietnam. Shopping at these outlets can save you big money over local outlets.

Wood Doors and frames can also be acquired in area of Bangkok around Bang Po. It's great fun to shop these wood shops and look at the many different selections available. Wood comes in several grades so it's important to actually see what you're buying. Spending a day looking at the different wood items like wood trim and windows will also give you a few ideas also. There are also a few wood shops inside the infamous weekend market near Bang sue.

Power tools and things like sandpaper and drill bits, electrical wire, bulbs, and lights can be bought in an area called Klong Tom. This can be found in Bangkok's China town area known as Yarrowat. If you ever been here this is the place where are the Chinese have their gold shops near the river in downtown. Sundays is used goods day so there are many extra vendors on the streets during the weekend. Collecting Business cards of the different vendors will come in handy later if you need to buy something they don't sell at home pro when building your Phuket house.

You can purchase many landscaping items just outside Bangkok at a fraction of what you pay on island. The weekend market also has a large selection of plant, trees and other yard Items. Furniture can also be purchased at the weekend market as there are literally hundreds of furniture shops inside there.

Shipping to Phuket is a very easy thing to arrange with your vendors. If you have a lot of stock you can arrange for a 13 ton truck to bring down your truckload of goods. You can really save if you have something heavy to ship like granite, sandstone or tile. Medium size shipments you can use freight shipping companies which also use busses and some big lorry trucks to ship the goods overnight to Phuket. You can even pack the goods in the bus yourself and ride down with them you have time. Being creative In Thailand you too can save a lot of money if you have time and take the time to shop around and buy the items you handpicked to make your Phuket House a home.

Steel Buildings - Buying Tips

2008-09-05T08:37:00.000-07:00

You've finally decided that you need a new building. Maybe you need a new office building as your business expands. Or maybe you really have to have that indoor riding arena for your horses. Or your company needs to expand with a new manufacturing facility. Maybe you just want a nice outbuilding or barn for storage and other projects.

You've heard that steel buildings are a great option. You've heard that steel building construction can save you time and money, that metal buildings go up fast, and since they are pre-engineered, there are no surprises. They come in on budget, and are expertly engineered to meet the local building codes so the building permitting process is easy. And you can make all the design decisions yourself. But where to start? It's not as complicated as you think.

Here a some steel building buying tips that will help the novice metal buildings buyer feel confident as a pro.

Do call your local building department and explain that you would like to build a pre engineered steel building on your lot and give them the location. Ask whether the local building codes allow for pre-engineered steel buildings. If they do, ask what the applicable metal building codes are. Remember to ask about "setbacks" and other code requirements that may prohibit the use of prefab metal buildings or any building for that matter on a given lot.

Don't make the mistake of thinking that building codes are standard. Many times the builder or steel buildings supplier will give code information based on the standards in the metal building industry. However, there are no standard steel building codes that will satisfy building code requirements across the board. A reputable steel building supplier will make sure that the building price they quote incorporates all applicable building codes.

Do check the steel buildings supplier with the Better Business Bureau and the Dunn & Bradstreet report.

Don't be afraid to talk in depth with your steel building supplier. Describe in detail what you want the building for, whether it is for a horse barn, a church, a warehouse, or manufacturing plant. Make sure the supplier understands exactly what the final use of the building will be. The building use will influence many design decisions and ultimately the final price.

Do know exactly what you want before you order. Decide the dimensions of the building you want to build, the width, length, and height of the building. Where do you want the doors and windows? What color do you want for the walls, roof, and trim? Are there other steel building accessories you would like, such as skylights, cupolas, gutters, and downspouts? Do you need insulation for the building? Don't assume that doors and windows, gutters and downspouts are included. Many times the framed openings for doors and windows are included, but not the doors and windows themselves, which are additional.

Do consider your options for the roof. Do you want a standing seam roof or the screw down roofing system? A screw down roofing panel is the most commonly used panel for metal buildings roofing, and if properly installed will give you many years of weather tightness.

What about roof pitch? Roof pitch describes the steepness of the roof slope. The standard roof pitch on pre-engineered steel buildings is 1:12. This is the most economical in terms of heating and cooling. Because the structural steel frames are strong enough to support the roof, in most cases a steeper pitch is not required, although you may want a steeper pitch for aesthetic reasons, for example, if you are building a church, or you like the more traditional look of a steeper pitch.

What about color? Many steel buildings have roofs of Galvalume steel, which is a silvery color, and may qualify for Energy Credit under the Federal Tax Code. Some metal building companies have a color option for the roof, which allows you to choose from an array of energy efficient siliconized polyester coating steel buildings colors that will save you even more on energy costs.

Do you like the look of stucco, stone, or brick? If you do, make sure the steel buildings supplier can provide pre-cast panels or other materials that will give the look of wood, stone, or brick to harmonize with pre-existing construction, and to satisfy the local codes, which, in some areas of the country do not allow for standard metal siding.

Do make sure you are comparing identical buildings when comparing pricing. If the price from one steel building supplier seems markedly lower, take a closer look - you may find that what they are offering at the lower price is cutting corners and you will get an inferior building in the end.

How to Get the Quality Custom Home Floor Plans You Need Without Regrets

2008-08-26T08:47:00.003-07:00

When you have your piece of real estate, and you are ready to create your home plans, you may want to take a new approach to it. You could go to a lot of places online and find an abundance of floor plans already available. While this certainly makes it convenient for some, you may have no idea how much thought actually went into those house plans. When you really think about it, though, that may not really be the best way to go to get your own custom house plans.

Software and Floorplans Abound

It is easy to pick up a lot of floorplans on the Internet. It would not take long before you ended up with a whole collection. Unfortunately, this may leave you with the limitations of someone else's idea of a home - what should be your home.

Avoid the Copycat Syndrome

Ask yourself if you really want to follow someone else's idea of what your home should look like, or seek to create your own custom home plans. While you may not want it to be too extreme for when you might try to sell it later, you certainly do want a home that is designed around the way you live. In order to accomplish this in the best way possible, you want to start out with a great idea for your own wonderful dream home that will not limit your imagination.

Go for Your Own Custom Dream House Plans

A good way to start out would be to write down the things that you would like in your dream home and then put them into a basic hand-drawn floorplan. Alter it as you see the need to add or subtract some things, and then when you are comfortable with it, talk to a home designer about your need for house blueprints. You certainly want to consider some options like patios and decks, a large kitchen, a cathedral ceiling, lots of glass and possibly skylights, extra bathrooms and walk-in closets.

When you design your own custom home, you have the opportunity to put into it those features you want most - and where you want them. You can add closet space, an extra bathroom, a large family room, a study or den, a hobby room, and so much more.

Enjoy the Uniqueness of Your Home Forever

Once you have talked to a builder and have actually built your unique custom home, you will have the joy of knowing that it was built just for you and your family. It is your design and you can be proud of it. You did not borrow someone else's house plans, although you may want to get some ideas there.

Your dream home can have its beginning today. If you have a good idea for a floor plan, you may want to go ahead and get started. The architectural design you need can be started quickly by a professional draftsman and before long, your custom home will soon be on the way.

Why Custom House Plans Will Suit Your Needs Better

2008-08-26T08:47:00.001-07:00

If you are ready to have your house plans or building plans created, then you may want to consider the options before you. You can choose between floor plans that are already out there on the Internet, or have some custom house plans made for you.

Of course, the choice really is yours, but the results may be as different as day is from night in the long run. Whether you are building a log cabin, a townhouse, an investment property, or a luxury home, you want to make sure that you have the right blueprints for your new home construction.

Custom house plans will provide you with...

A Greater Flexibility in Design

As you look at existing home plans that you find here or there, you will discover that they all are based on someone else's needs and ideas. Your own dream home, however, should be just that - your dream home. When designing your own custom house plans, you need to consider all possibilities to make your vision come to pass.

One option that you may want to consider as you think about your custom floor plans, is the possibility of alternative home designs. This can include unique homes like green homes, earthen homes, solar homes, barn conversions, strawbale, and so much more. Some of these home designs can greatly lower the cost of your new home construction.

An Increased Level of Functionality

As you work with a professional to make your own floorplans, you are free to put into them the special features you want. One idea may be to put the laundry room on the same floor as the bedrooms. This way you do not have to carry loads of clothes and other things unnecessarily from floor to floor.

Another advantage of a custom home plan is that you can put bathrooms where you want, extra closets, add an island and a pantry in the kitchen, have walk-in closets, and put anything else in that you desire. Your new home can be built to your convenience - you can have it made your way. With your own custom house plans, you can add ceiling fans, fireplaces, all the outlets you want, and even put in zone heating if you want. It will be your unique architectural design.

A Higher Plane of Satisfaction

After you have built your own custom home, you will be the one that is happier having followed your own ideas and tastes in design. You will be glad that you made original floor plans and did not follow someone else's ideas. Even better yet, you can talk to your floor plan designer about ideas you have and receive consultation from someone who has experience in what kind of features work well - and which ones might be better left out, or changed.

Chinking Questions-Answers & Money Saving Application Tips

2008-08-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

Chinking is very common on western log homes but can be found in the east as well. The most common color is mortar white because it resembles the look of old time cement. Chinking may be required to seal the joints in your logs or you may choose to use it for aesthetic purposes. Chinking is designed to stand out from your wood which is why it has a heavy texture. Finally, it is typically installed in 1''- 4'' joints.

Professional applicators prefer to purchase the product in 5 gallon buckets while homeowners are more likely to purchase the material in 29oz tubes. Both will work well as long as you have the right product. Some chinking materials can be difficult to apply which is why I would recommend a product called Chinker' Edge. It is a little heavier than most other chinking materials which is nice because it stays in place when you are working with the material. Also, it does not collect on your brush or trowel when you are working with the material which will save you time, energy and probably a headache.

If you are looking to restore your existing chinking it isn't necessary to replace the old chinking with brand new chinking. Most "new" chinking materials are latex based products and will bond with each other. If you choose to go this route, it is important to get a good bond to the top and bottom of the joint. If you are installing chinking to a new structure then I would highly recommend installing some form of backer rod before applying any chinking material. You can use an open or closed cell backer rod that will be D-shaped, trapezoidal or full round. Backer rod installation will save you money on chinking materials and will allow the sealant to expand and contract at a more proficient rate.

Check with the chinking and stain manufacturers to ensure that your finishing products are compatible with each other. It is always a good idea to use a stain and chinking from the same manufacturer in order to avoid any unnecessary problems down the road.

In conclusion, follow the following application tips below in order to achieve a successful job.

Use backer rod.
Apply at least a 1/4''- 1/2'' of material.
Use a compatible stain.
The larger your logs the larger the width of your chinking joint should be.
Apply the material between 45-90 degrees and do not install it in direct sunlight.
Purchase Chinker's Edge by Sashco.
Have fun.

Mountain Home Building Products is a leading distributor of log home chinking, cabin caulking, log stains, clear wood finishes, log siding, house logs & rustic lighting. Our diverse array of products makes us one of the most complete suppliers anywhere, and one of the most successful log home products distributors in the world. We are dedicated to bringing customers the finest quality products combined with the best customer service in the log home industry.

New Homes in Atlanta - New Home Floor Plans

2008-08-26T08:45:00.002-07:00

Atlanta is home to both national and local home builders offering a variety of new homes in Atlanta with spacious and affordable floor plans. Below is information about floor plans available in new home communities throughout the Atlanta area.

The Rutherford Plan is available in Lochshire, a Traton Homes community - The Rutherford is a 2-story floor plan 3 bedrooms, a media room and a kitchen with an island and breakfast area. The Rutherford floor plan is a single-family home priced from the $270s.

The Tara floor plan is available at Canterbury Estates, a Beazer Homes community - The Tara floor plan offers home buyers 2 and 3 story options (basement) with 3,479 sq. ft. This floor plan is available with 4 - 6 bedrooms, 3.5 - 5 bathrooms, 2 - 3 garages and is priced from $370,990. The kitchen has a center island, breakfast bar area, walk-in pantry and tons of cabinet space.

The Glenhurst floor plan is available in Farris Park, a D.R. Horton Homes community - The Glenhurst floor plan, priced from the $190s, offers home shoppers 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. This 1-story floor plan has formal dining and living areas as well as a kitchen with an island and a vaulted family room. Each bedroom has a walk-in closet and there is a 2-car garage.

The Whitewater floor plan is available in Oakdale Bluffs, an Ashton Woods community - The Whitewater plan is a 3-story town home-offering buyers 2,145 sq. ft. with 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. This plan has a family room, dining room and a kitchen with a large pantry and center island. Homes in the Whitewater are priced from $220,990.

The Austin plan is available in Sable Glen, a Royce Builder community - The Austin floor plan is a town home with 2 floors. This plan offers shoppers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a combined family and dining room. The master bedroom is set aside with its own private bath and a walk-in closet. This floor plan is available from $142,390.

The information above was found on each home builder's website in August of 2008 and is deemed reliable. Please contact each builder for more information about his or her floor plans, new home communities and Atlanta homes for sale.

Locating the Best Custom Home Builder in Your Area

2008-08-26T08:45:00.001-07:00

There are usually a lot of great home builders in the area you live. However, there are a few things you can do that will help make the process seem a little less stressful when looking for the most qualified custom home builder for your family.

Your home is more than where you hang your hat. It is the location where the memories that last a lifetime are made. For this reason you probably do not want to rely on the designing or building of your house to just any old "Joe" off the street who claims to be a home builder. So what do you want from your custom home builder in Magnolia, Texas?

1) Experience. You want to be able to drive by homes that have been built by the people that you are trusting your building needs to. There's absolutely no other thing that can be compared to seeing a work in progress to help you examine whether or not a builder is the best choice for you. If you can walk through the inside of the builder's current project that is even better because it will give you an excellent idea of how they may take care of the small details, which many home builders skip right over. Look especially close at the small details when you are able to. If you aren't able to see the inside of any of the builder's current works, ask if they have a portfolio of photographs. You know the saying, a picture is worth 1,000 words.

2) Be sure to ask the potential builder for past references & recommendations. When you arrive at a residence that you really like ask who was the builder of the house. While you probably do not want a residence that is identical, it is possible that you can get a home that gives the same detailed attention and care in the building process when you choose the same custom home builder. Don't forget that you are able to incorporate the details you admire most about those homes into your own home while adding and subtracting appearances and fine points according to your personal tastes. References are a great way to ask questions about how the workers behaved themselves, if there were any unexpected expenses added on at the end of the project, if the project ended on time, and if there were any issues with the workmanship since the project has ended.

Keep in mind that there is no one custom home builder in Magnolia, Texas or elsewhere that works well for everyone. Your goal is to find the custom home builder that will work best for you.